Is there such a thing as a strategy for Roulette?

Roulette is one of the most popular casino games, online or offline. Sitting alongside other classics like Blackjack and Poker, it is a favoured option for players of all abilities and levels of experience.

But while most people will tell you they have a strategy for many of the most popular games, it's easy to automatically dismiss Roulette as a game of pure luck. Is that fair? You may actually be surprised by the number of tactics and strategies that are utilised by players.

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Some historians trace the game of Roulette as far back as 1655. It’s claimed by many that philosopher Blaise Pascal was its inventor and that casino visitors in Paris were the first to experience the thrill of the spin.

And that it’s stood the test of time is a reflection of how much people enjoy to play - but how do you win? Well, the aim of the game is quite simple. Players must place their chips on a grid to bet on where the ball will land on the Roulette wheel after it is spun.

There are usually 37 numbers around the edge of the wheel, consisting of 1 to 36 in a pattern of red and black, as well as one or two green zeros. And that’s where it gets interesting, as players can also bet on whether or not the number will be odd or even, or red, black or green!.

Numbers are also arranged into rows and thirds, while players may also make multiple bets, or place their chips strategically to bet on four - or more - numbers at once. And it’s here where many of the most popular strategies come into play.

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And while the merits of many common methods, such as ‘the martingale’ and progression betting are hotly debated by players, there are several other less taxing tactics that you can employ to ensure your game is enjoyable. 

If your aim is to make a small amount with each spin then the best option is to make multiple small bets. While you may win a larger amount by betting on a single number coming up, by betting on two or more outcomes, such as the number being even or red, you can give yourself a more than a 50% chance of earning a return.

That return may be relatively modest, and though there are never any guarantees you’ll be successful, players who’d like to spend a little longer at the table and who aren’t too bothered about landing a huge pay-out should consider playing this way. Most of the best online Roulette games allow you to make low-stake bets and there's no pressure to stack your chips high for every spin.

Another smart strategy is to reduce the amount you bet as the amount of money you have decreases. This will also help prolong your game, although bear in mind that cutting your game short isn’t always a bad option.

Keep a profit goal in mind and when you reach it, don’t be afraid to walk away. Players that insist on chasing a bigger prize can sometimes end up losing the money they’ve made, so keep a figure in mind when you approach the table.